Founded: 2003
Headquarters: Budapest, Hungary
Main bases: Budapest, Bucharest, Warsaw and many other airports across Europe
Wizz Air is the leading low-cost airline of Central and Eastern Europe, and one of the busiest foreign airlines at Ben Gurion Airport. Its pink-and-purple aircraft link Israel with dozens of destinations at budget prices. Here is a profile of the airline and tips for flying it.
History and growth of Wizz Air
Wizz Air was founded in 2003 and operated its first flight in 2004, from Katowice in Poland. It grew rapidly by offering cheap flights to and from Central and Eastern Europe, and has since expanded across the continent and into the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia.
The Wizz Air fleet
Wizz Air operates an all-Airbus fleet of A320 and A321 aircraft, with a large and growing share of the newer A321neo. It has one of the youngest fleets in Europe, which helps keep fuel consumption and costs low.
Network and service
Wizz Air flies to around 200 destinations in more than 50 countries. The model is simple: a low base fare with optional extras such as bags, seat selection and priority boarding. Members of its paid WIZZ Discount Club get lower fares and baggage prices.
What the basic fare includes
The basic fare includes one small personal bag that must fit under the seat in front of you. A trolley bag for the overhead locker comes with Wizz Priority or a higher fare bundle, and checked bags cost extra. Sizes and weights are strictly enforced – see our guide to Wizz Air baggage, seating and ticket types.
Safety
Wizz Air operates to strict European safety standards, with trained crews and a modern fleet.
Wizz Air and Israel
Wizz Air is one of the most active foreign airlines in Israel, with flights from Tel Aviv to cities such as Budapest, Bucharest, Sofia, Larnaca and many more. Its Israel operations have been suspended and resumed at times depending on the security situation, so check the latest schedule. See the full list of Wizz Air destinations from Israel, and find out which terminal Wizz Air uses at Ben Gurion.
Tips for flying Wizz Air
- Measure your bag: the free personal item has strict size limits, and oversized bags are charged at the gate.
- Check in online on time: airport check-in can carry a fee.
- Buy extras at booking: bags and seats usually cost more if added later.
- Know the compensation rules: on flights from the EU, you may be entitled to compensation for long delays and cancellations.
Choosing between budget airlines? Read Wizz Air vs Ryanair, and plan your trip with our guides to Bucharest and Sofia.
